Ireland’s Rolland to referee Six Nations opener

ALAIN ROLLAND will help kick-off the 2011 RBS Six NationsChampionship when he referees the opening day clash between Wales and England at the Millennium Stadium on February 4.

The Irishman, who refereed the World Cup final in 2007, will be in charge of the only Friday game of the championship, but will also officiate at the Scottish/Italian game on March 19 in round five.

He is just one of four referees toget a double Six Nations appointment, joining New Zealand’s Bryce Lawrence, Frenchman Roman Poite and England’s Wayne Barnes.